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South Philly Bar Crawl
September 25, 2006 By: J.D. Ackerman jdackerman@gmail.com
Whether it's Rocky Balboa, the Mummers, or cannolis that come to mind when thinking of South Philly, there is no doubt that the district south of Center City is steeped in Philadelphia history and tradition. In recent years, the once primarily Italian-American community has undergone a major revitalization. A flurry of new restaurants, shops and pubs - plus an ever-increasing number of new renters and home owners - has South Philadelphia bringing old and new together to create an eclectic enclave for visitors and residents alike.
1601
Born on the ruins of one of the rowdiest (and not in a good way) sports bars in South Philly, this corner bar took a grimy hole in the wall and created an atmospheric haven catering to a mix of tattooed hipsters and older local folks. A self-described Mediterranean wine bar, this neighborhood gem offers up a diverse assortment of new American apps and entrees, including wine pairings and daily specials. Be sure to check out the decent beer list or ask the suds-savvy bartender to help you choose the perfect brew. And, while it may look small from the outside, a smattering of tables and a perfectly placed oversized mirror virtually double the interior. Well worth making the journey south. 1601 S. 10th St. (at Tasker St.), Philadelphia, 215.218.3840.
Pub on Passyunk East
With only a few months under its belt, this Passyunk Avenue East newbie is a shining example of the changing landscape of South Philly. Wedged on the corner of Passyunk Avenue and Dickinson Street, the pub exudes an old-world charm with a wrap-around dark wood bar, exposed beam ceilings and stained glass wall panels, yet draws in the local up-and-coming young professional set with a well conceived menu of updated pub fare and an extensive beer list. Rounding out the experience is an impressive jukebox that hits all the right notes with everything from Sleater-Kinney to Frank Sinatra. A truly welcome addition to the neighborhood's main drag. Pub on Passyunk East, 1501 East Passyunk Ave., Philadelphia, 215.755.5125.
Triangle Tavern
While not a chic new hot spot, this neighborhood watering hole is all about the basics: cheap drinks, seats a plenty and a friendly bartender to keep the liquor flowing. And the slightly outdated jukebox and snack vending machine only add to the tavern's quirky allure. Be sure to keep up with the Eagles schedule though, as fans flock to the bar's TVs on game nights. No tricks up their sleeves - this bar just knows how to do it right. Triangle Tavern, 10th and Reed sts., Philadelphia, 215.467.8683.
Dolphin Tavern
More a divey go-go bar than anything else, this South Broad Street standard is an experience all its own and a notable mention on any South Philly bar list. Sure it's a little seedy and offers a minimal beverage selection (you'll pretty much be drinking Miller High Life, the champagne of beers, or mini mixed drinks), but what the Dolphin lacks in class, it makes up for in quintessential dive bar atmosphere. Aside from the "dancer's revue" on the weekends, the windowless pub's in-house entertainment includes pinball, video games, pool tables and a jukebox in the back half of the bar. A big plus: it's literally steps away from the orange line for all us SEPTA ridin' folks. Dolphin Tavern, 1539 S. Broad St, Philadelphia, 215.467.1752.
North of south , south of South (St.)
If crossing the great divide (Washington Ave.) isn't your thing, check out these two Queen Village/Bella Vista bars a little closer to downtown:
Royal Tavern
With a good selection of beers (think everything from PBR to Chimay and the like), a full new American pub fare menu with ever-changing specials, a rockin' jukebox, and roomy feel with plenty of bar space and tables, this city favorite attracts foodies, hipsters and people just looking to grab a lager with friends. Royal Tavern, 937 Passyunk Ave., Philadelphia, 215.389.6694; www.royaltavern.com
The Dive
Flyer-covered walls and a dark, smoky interior set the stage for cheap beers, a daily happy hour (5pm-7pm) offering up free pizza, and upstairs dance parties. What more could you ask from a dive bar? The Dive, 947 Passyunk Ave., Philadelphia, 215.465.5505.
